Up to 100kg lighter than its predecessor and featuring the manufacturer’s latest technology, the new S-Class builds on the success of its eight year old predecessor, which remains the biggest volume seller in its segment in the UK.

At launch, the S300 BlueTEC Hybrid will be the most efficient model in the range. This uses the same drivetrain as the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid, comprising a 2.1-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine and electric motor fitted between this and the seven-speed transmission. In the S-Class, this returns 64.2mpg while emitting 115g/km CO2.

Because the hybrid system is modular, it can also be used with a petrol engine. Markets without the European preference for diesel engines will be offered the E400 Hybrid, which uses a V6 petrol engine. This is 20% more efficient than its predecessor, which was never offered in the UK, offering 44.8mpg fuel economy with CO2 emissions of 147g/km – beating key competitors the BMW ActiveHybrid7, Lexus LS 600h and Audi A8 Hybrid.

The range will expand further next year, according to Prof. Thomas Weber, member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for group research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars development: ‘The new S-Class achieves consumption and emissions figures that only a few years ago would have seemed utopian even in the intermediate class,’ he said.

‘And this is just the start of our “Green Leadership” initiative: soon to be followed by the S 500 Plug-In Hybrid – the first S-Class with a fuel consumption lower than 4l/100km (over 70mpg).’